The changing security reality in Europe requires radical steps to strengthen defence capabilities of the Member States, EU Defence Ministers agreed in an informal meeting in Warsaw on April 2–3. The representatives of the Member States also focused on stepping up military assistance to Ukraine and strengthening the European defence industry. The Czech Republic was represented by Deputy Minister of Defence Daniel Blažkovec.
White Paper for European Defence: the key to ensuring security by 2030
The first topic of the meeting in Warsaw was the EU White Paper – a ground-breaking strategic document of the European Commission, primarily designed to outline the steps necessary to significantly increase Europe’s defense capacity by 2030 through joint projects, investments into defence industries and boost the capabilities of the Member States. The White Paper was firstly presented on Wednesday by the EU Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius. Subsequently, it was subject to detailed discussion during the Ministers’ working lunch on Thursday.
A key topic of discussion on the White Paper was the ReArm Europe Plan, which seeks to help Member States increase national defence expenditures. Among other measures, this could involve joint loans backed by the EU budget or EU funds, facilitated by loosened rules. The White Paper also accentuates the need to eliminate critical shortcomings in European defence capabilities through joint projects in acquisitions and development, while ensuring compatibility with NATO planning. Special attention was given to strengthening the European defence industry, a key factor in enhancing security across the continent. Simplifying regulations for the defence industry, reducing administrative restrictions, and mitigating the impact of other policies on defence industry all seek to stimulate innovation and competitiveness. This initiative presents opportunities for economic growth in the Czech Republic, which has extensive experience in arms making. However, it is essential to strike balance in current EU’s efforts combining support for European industry with maintaining flexibility and openness to other markets. Given the urgency of strengthening both defence capacity and strategic partnerships, such balance is of key importance.
According to Deputy Minister Blažkovec, the White Paper is a step in the right direction. “It is an opportunity to realize the EU’s potential. That means, in the first place, mobilizing funds and creating an environment that enables effective defence,” he said. He also emphasized the need to swiftly address weaknesses that hamper the EU’s security and defence posture. Deputy Minister Blažkovec also welcomed efforts to strengthen the defence industry and simplify regulations in this sector. “We must take a proactive approach to individual proposals to ensure that we seize this opportunity to enhance our defence in a way that maximally benefits the Czech defence industry and, in turn, the entire economy.”
Ukraine according to the EU: a porcupine of steel
An important pillar of the White Paper is the support for Ukraine, which was the focus of the next session of the meeting. The European Commission, backed by many Member States, intends to turn Ukraine into a "steel porcupine" which would serve as a barrier against potential further Russian aggression. For this reason, European aid to Ukraine should not only take the form of short-term reactive support but should also focus on long-term, systematic measures that will enhance its ability to defend itself effectively against Russian aggression in the years ahead and, in turn ensure the security of EU Member States. The document outlines military assistance in areas such as artillery ammunition, air defence, and drones. Additionally, according to proposals by some Member States, the EU should grant Ukraine access to its satellite services.
One of the key topics on the agenda of the Ministerial meeting was the plan proposed by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. In line with Ukraine’s requirements, the plan focuses on the commitment to jointly supply Ukraine with 2 million large-calibre rounds valued at EUR 5 billion. “The new ambition of EUR 5 billion is the bare minimum we should jointly commit to. The Czech Republic is ready to play a key role in the proposed supplies of 2 million rounds of large-calibre ammunition in 2025,” Deputy Minister Blažkovec said, adding that this goal is achievable provided the funds are allocated in time and procurement begins as soon as possible and without restrictions.
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